Member of 409th 93rd Bomber Group. Part of crew of B-24D bomber "Jose Carioca". Flew in Operation Tidal Wave, one of the most daring raids of the war. Planes took off from Libya and flew into Ploesti at treetop level to destroy oil refineries. Flying at extreme left position in the 3rd element, the Jose Carioca was hit by flak on approach to target of opportunity Ploesti Concordia Vega Refinery (White V). Although hit and on fire the crew still released on target before hitting a rooftop and crashing into Ploesti women's jail. Awarded Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal and Purple Heart.